Publication:Sea Talk Summer 2005/Seasonal thoughts from the Maritime Commander

Whenever I meet up with our people, be it ashore or afloat, I am always reminded of how privileged and proud I am to be a member of Navy's Senior Leadership Group, in an organisation so highly regarded here in Australia and by other countries and Defence Forces around the world.

I often reflect on what makes us one of the best. From my own observations and experience I put it down to leadership - leadership at all levels of the Navy.

This gives us our competitive advantage, is one of our best products and provides the basic building block for our success. We should take time to look at our strength in this area and be proud of it.

That is not to say that we can't improve. If we don't address our weaknesses then we will always get what we always got. In this day, where we have to compete hard for our workforce, we simply can't afford to maintain things as they are. We all have to be out there adding value and making a difference.

This focus on improvement is also the essence of the Sea Change program and why we are fundamentally reviewing and renewing many of our personnel practices and other processes. At the end of 2005, we have made significant way, and this progress is testament to the hard work of many people, all focussed on a better Navy. Leadership at work.

As we look forward to our summer break, I acknowledge and thank our men and women for their contribution throughout 2005. Without you, we would not have achieved what we did, as professionally as we did. And this good work continues; over Christmas we will have five ships at sea acting in support of our national and maritime interests.

I also thank our families for their support and sacrifice throughout the year, especially those who are separated from their loved ones this Christmas season. We understand the difficulties of separation, which is why we have strong support networks. Our extended Navy family is an important contributor to the sense of community that is so fundamental to our individual and collective success.

Throughout the year I have placed great emphasis on risk management and safety. As the end of the year approaches, I pray we all return safely in 2006 refreshed and ready for the challenges ahead.

Think safety as we move into the new year, which promises to be full of opportunity and excitement.

Our transition to the new Armidale Class Patrol Boats will continue, and we will commission our final Anzac ship, Perth, as well as our new tanker, Sirius.

Sea Change will make more progress towards providing stability, certainty and satisfaction for our people.

It is an exciting time and I urge everyone to focus on our strengths and on the development of our people as we aim to produce operational capability for employment on behalf of the people of Australia. They rely on us, and we deliver.

Thanks to you all.

Davyd Thomas

Rear Admiral, RAN

Maritime Commander